Wireless Watch

Iridium signs partner in its boost to support global satellite-based IoT

The early developments in Internet of Things (IoT) networks were focused on short area technologies like ZigBee; then cellular and unlicensed spectrum options battled it out in the low power WAN segment. But IoT connectivity on a global scale is envisaged by satellite providers armed with emerging LPGAN (low power global area network) technologies. Satellite operator Iridium Communications has signed a deal with Magnitude Space, an emerging player in low power small satellites, signaling Iridium’s interest in exploring collaborative partnerships with players in this field, with an eye on the IoT. As part of the memo of understanding (MoU), the companies will begin discussions on how to collaborate on opportunities for space-based IoT services with the development of reliable LPGAN…